Pharmacological and Parenteral TherapiesQuestion 466 of 2368
A client with a severe allergy to penicillin is prescribed a cephalosporin. Which action should the nurse take before giving the drug?
- Give the first dose because the drugs are from different classes
- Give the drug with an antacid to prevent a reaction
- Ask the client to avoid eating until the drug is given
- Review the type and severity of the client's previous reaction to penicillin
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Correct answer: Review the type and severity of the client's previous reaction to penicillin
Cephalosporins and penicillins have a similar structure, so cross-sensitivity can occur.
Source: Nursing Pharmacology, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Antimicrobials: CEPHALOSPORINS. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026